Parvo is the short form for canine parvovirus, which is a contagious viral disease that affects dogs. It mostly affects puppies simply because they have developing cells which is like a playground to the virus. Though not so common in adult dogs, they can also get infected. Parvo often affects the intestines and as a result, a dog experiences bloody diarrhea.
It can also affect the heart and cause it to fail. From these simple facts, it goes without saying that Parvo is the most lethal and dangerous virus that can affect dogs. Fortunately it is preventable with the Parvo vaccine
Parvo virus is extremely contagious and can be easily transmitted through fecal matter. It can stay alive for weeks or even months in the areas where the dog feces with the virus have been disposed. If you have an unvaccinated dog, beware of the fact that you are living with grave danger as such a dog is susceptible to Parvo. To stay safe, always clean surfaces with disinfectants as Parvo is resistant to disinfected surfaces. Use bleach to clean dig kennel surfaces or where your dog frequents.
Each time you notice your dog vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy, take it to a vet doctor. Loss of appetite is yet another common symptom of Parvo. Keep in mind that vaccinated puppies and dogs can be Parvo carriers without the risk of being infected. As such taking your dog to a vet for checkups is highly recommended.
There really is no home remedy for Parvo as the virus affect the cells really first. But you can alleviate the symptoms by using simple home remedies for Parvo. A cup of oatmeal water is a good natural home remedy for Parvo. It should be chemical free for it to be effective by acting as an electrolyte liquid. To make oatmeal you have to have a cup of oatmeal, a teaspoon of any salt type and one third of pancake maple.
Chamomile tea is also good for Parvo. Celestial Seasoning Chamomile or Bigelow Cozy Chamomile is highly recommended chamomile tea brands for Parvo. Do not attempt to give your dog caffeine teas as that will only worsen the situation. Pedialyte, eggs and chicken product should also be avoided when treating a Parvo infected dog. Pedialyte will only worsen the vomiting symptoms while chicken and turkey product will increase the risk of other harmful bacteria like salmonella getting into your dog.
250 milligrams of ginger is yet another effective Parvo home remedy. Use veggie cap format or ground ginger for best results. You can also add some cloves to the dog food but do not make it too much or the dog will refuse to eat.
Then let the dog have adequate rest. Do not provoke it or disturb it. It may be too weak but should it bite for any reason whatsoever, the bite can do more harm than good to your immune system. Just be gentle with the dog and take it to a vet doctor as soon as possible.
